Apparatus for aerial exercise

ABSTRACT

An apparatus for aerial exercise and enjoyment of a user while suspended from a support structure is provided. The apparatus includes a main support, at least one support hanger, a pair of branches, and at least one user support attachment. The at least one support hanger connects a first and second location of the support structure to an upper portion of the main support. A lower portion of the main support is rotatably connected to the upper portion. The pair of branches extend from the lower portion and are configured to receive the at least one user support attachment. Each user support attachment includes an interior portion containing a padding material. The at least one user support attachment may be a pair of looped leg or arm straps, a shoulder harness, or a seat. Each looped leg strap of the pair of looped leg straps includes a foot platform.

A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains materialthat is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has noobjection to the reproduction of the patent document or the patentdisclosure, as it appears in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office patentfile or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention

The present disclosure relates generally to exercise equipment. Moreparticularly, the present disclosure pertains to an aerialmultifunctional exercise and therapeutic swing apparatus.

2. Description of the Prior Art

Aerial exercise devices are well known in the prior art and range fromyoga swings to hammocks. All previous aerial exercise devices use silklike hammock straps to suspend, invert, and stretch the user. Someaerial exercise devices incorporate fabric or plastic handles designedfor supporting a user's feet or hands when performing specificexercises. Some of these aerial exercise devices are specificallydesigned for use with custom free-standing support structures, like thatof U.S. Pat. No. 7,255,666.

The issue with all previously disclosed aerial exercise devices beginswith the silk like hammock straps which are used as the main point ofsuspension for the human body. This limits the variety of exercises tothose performed while sitting or lying. Inversion exercises may onlyhappen by wrapping the hammock around the hips and in most cases, thiscan get very complicated. While the handles can be used by a user forperforming specific exercises that engage a user's arms, theconfiguration and orientation of the straps does not provide stabilityto the wrists, elbows, and shoulders of a user. This can often result injoint related injuries to a user.

The same handles that are used to support a user's hands are typicallyalso used to support a user's feet. This can be very uncomfortable for auser when the user's feet are being used to support the user's entirebody. These handles, when used for supporting a user's feet, provideminimal stability and can often lead to injury if the handle rotates andcauses a user's foot slip off. Because the handles provide only a smallarea to support the user's foot, they may limit the amount of time auser can support themselves with their feet. This small area for auser's feet and lack of stability may also prevent or deter a user fromswinging in full motion.

The silk like hammock straps of these prior aerial exercise devices aretypically connected to a support structure at two spaced apart locationsand hang vertically from a support structure. This configuration limitsswinging motion within a single vertical plane. The spaced apartconfiguration of the silk like hammock straps forces the user's legs andhips apart when stretches and exercises are performed. The silk likehammock straps provide little, if any, stability to a user's backbecause the straps do not naturally run behind the user's back. If auser were to attempt to swing in full motion, the user would quicklytilt back behind the straps in a manner that is not stable or consistentwith a typical pendulum swing pattern.

The prior aerial exercise devices which use silk like hammock strapsthat are spaced apart can really only be used to swing safely while inthe sitting position. When a user attempts to stand while using prioraerial exercise devices, the user is provided with no stability orsupport. This makes it nearly impossible, and extremely dangerous, toexperience a true aerobic workout while standing and swinging in theseprior aerial exercise devices.

The silk like hammock straps of the prior aerial exercise devices mayalso be configured to suspend from a single attachment point of asupport structure. This configuration enables omnidirectional swingingwhen using the aerial exercise device. This configuration can beespecially dangerous when the support structure is a customfree-standing cage-like support structure or a tree.

Additionally, when a custom free-standing support structure is used forsuspending the prior aerial exercise devices, the user is limited tomovements which may be performed within the confines of thefree-standing support structure. The free-standing support structurepresents additional hazards when a user attempt to perform a full swingsuch as hitting the support structure or causing it to topple over.

BRIEF SUMMARY

Accordingly, a need exists for an improved aerial exercise device. Thepresent disclosure provides solutions and advancements to the issues andproblems presented by prior aerial exercise devices.

The present disclosure provides an apparatus for aerial exercise of auser while suspended from a support structure. The apparatus isconfigured to connect to the support structure, via hanger straps, attwo points for limiting the swing pattern to a single vertical plane.The hanger straps which are attached to the support structure convergeat a main support of the apparatus. The main support structure of theapparatus includes an upper portion and a lower portion which arerotatably connected. This allows the user to swing safely in a singledirection while also being able to spin. For more advanced users, themain support may be attached to the support structure at a single pointfor enabling an omnidirectional swing pattern. In an omnidirectionalswing pattern scenario, clearance in all directions surrounding theapparatus is of the utmost importance when using the apparatus safely.

The apparatus also includes daisy chains hanging downwardly from themain support. The daisy chains are configured to receive at least oneuser support attachment of the apparatus. The daisy chains allowmultiple user support attachments to be hung from differing heights.This enables the user to customize the apparatus based on the user'sbody characteristics or the specific movements the user intends toperform. The daisy chains also allow the user to take advantage ofcentrifugal forces while the user uses the apparatus.

One such user support attachment disclosed herein is a pair of loopedleg straps. The pair of looped leg straps include foot platforms thatare balanced and centered. The foot platforms provide sufficient areafor the entire foot, while also being able to tilt forward and backward,and shift left to right, thus allowing the user full ankle mobility.

The pair of looped leg straps double as a body harness of sorts.Starting at the user's ankle, each looped leg strap provides the userankle and foot support by use of pliable fabric loops (or crutches) thatfit around each looped leg strap at the user's ankle. For the user'sfoot the pliable fabric loops provides support and stability when movingthe feet and legs in all directions. This type of ankle support allowsthe user to lean and stretch while in full motion or during stationaryexercises and stretches. The same pliable fabric loops may also beutilized just below the knees to provide the user with extra legsupport.

Each looped leg strap of the pair of looped leg straps may be boundtogether at the hip, which provides the user with support from fallingforward. Because the pair of loop leg straps emanate from a centrallocation of the main support, the upper part of each looped leg straptravels up behind the user at the user's shoulders to provide supportfrom falling backwards.

The pair of looped leg straps (or body harness) are stuffed with apadding material which allows each looped leg strap to be comfortablyand safely wrapped around the user's body and legs to suspend andinvert, while engaging in a full aerobic exercise while swinging.

Another user support attachment disclosed herein is a pair of looped armstraps. The pair of looped arm straps are also stuffed with a paddingmaterial like the pair of looped leg straps. Each looped arm strap ofthe pair of looped arm straps is bound together at the forearm and elbowarea to provide support and stability to the user's wrists, elbows, andshoulders. This configuration gives the user's arms a solid yet pliablestructure to press against during various exercises.

Another user support attachment disclosed herein is a shoulder harness.The shoulder harness is designed as an additional safety measure whichmay be wore by the user under the user's armpits and around theshoulders. The shoulder harness also provides the user with additionalstability and assistance when using the apparatus. The shoulder harnessmay also be stuffed with a padding material. The combination of shoulderharness and the pair of looped leg straps may allow the user to safelymove freely without the pair of looped arm straps.

All the user support attachments disclosed herein allow for the user tostand up straight and remain in place for extended periods of time. Theyalso allow the user to perform exercises horizontally, while sitting,and even while inverted. Because of the added stability and safetyprovided by the present disclosure, this invention allows the user tosuspend and fully swing from amplitudes of up to 50 ft or more.

In addition, the apparatus may also include at least one vine that isalso attached to the support structure and spaced apart in front of orbehind the hanger straps. The at least one vine is configured to assistthe user with self-propelling the apparatus, controlling the spindirection of the apparatus, and controlling the intensity of swinging ofthe apparatus.

According to one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided anapparatus for aerial exercise of a user while suspended from a supportstructure. The apparatus is comprised of a main support, at least onesupport hanger, a pair of branches, and at least one user supportattachment. The main support has an upper portion and a lower portion.The lower portion is rotatably connected to the upper portion. The atleast one support hanger extends from the upper portion of the mainsupport. The at least one support hanger is configured to be connectedto the support structure at both a first location and a second locationspaced apart from the first location. The pair of branches connect toand extend from the lower portion of the main support. The pair ofbranches are configured to receive the at least one user supportattachment.

According to another aspect of the apparatus of the present disclosure,each branch of the pair of branches may include a plurality ofattachment loops positioned sequentially along the respective branch.

According to another aspect of the apparatus of the present disclosure,the pair of branches may be integrally formed and include a midpointattachment loop configured to be attached to the lower portion of themain support.

According to another aspect of the apparatus of the present disclosure,the at least one user support attachment includes a pair of looped legstraps. Each looped leg strap of the pair of looped leg straps may beconnected to and extend from a respective branch of the pair ofbranches. Each looped leg strap may be configured to support arespective foot of the user.

According to another aspect of the apparatus of the present disclosure,each looped leg strap of the pair of looped leg straps may include afoot platform configured to receive a respective foot of the user.

According to another aspect of the apparatus of the present disclosure,each looped leg strap of the pair of looped leg straps may include aninterior portion containing a padding material.

According to another aspect of the apparatus of the present disclosure,each looped leg strap of the pair of looped leg straps may include atleast one binding coupled to the respective looped leg strap. A bindingof the at least one binding may be configured to create a first upperloop and a second lower loop.

According to another aspect of the apparatus of the present disclosure,the second lower loop of each looped leg strap may include a respectivefoot platform having an upper surface and a passageway. The passagewaymay be configured to receive a lower portion of the second lower loop.The passageway may extend laterally through the foot platform bisectinga length of the foot platform.

According to another aspect of the apparatus of the present disclosure,the at least one user support attachment includes a pair of looped armstraps. Each looped arm strap of the pair of looped arm straps may beconnected to and extend from a respective branch of the pair ofbranches. Each looped arm strap may have a handle surrounding a lowerportion of the looped arm strap. The handle of each looped arm strap maybe configured to support a respective hand of the user.

According to another aspect of the apparatus of the present disclosure,each looped arm strap of the pair of looped arm straps includes aninterior portion containing a padding material.

According to another aspect of the apparatus of the present disclosure,each looped arm strap of the pair of looped arm straps may include atleast one binding coupled to the respective looped arm strap. A bindingof the at least one binding may be configured to create a first upperloop and a second lower loop.

According to another aspect of the apparatus of the present disclosure,the at least one user support attachment includes a seat. The seat maycomprise a generally rectangular material having opposite ends and alength defined between the opposite ends of the material. The oppositeends of the material may be bunched together and connected to adifferent respective branch of the pair of branches. The seat mayinclude a plurality of stuffed sections. The stuffed sections of theplurality of stuffed sections are connected to the material midwaybetween the opposite ends of the material. The stuffed sections of theplurality of stuffed sections are aligned and sequentially spaced alonga width of the generally rectangular material. The stuffed sections ofthe plurality of stuffed sections span a minority of the length of therectangular material. Each stuffed section of the plurality of stuffedsections contains a padding material.

According to another aspect of the apparatus of the present disclosure,the seat is configurable in either an expanded position or a rolledposition. The seat in the expanded position is generally shaped forreceiving a back or a rear end of the user. The seat in the rolledposition has the plurality of stuffed sections rolled together forsupporting the back or the rear end of the user. The plurality ofstuffed sections may be held together in the rolled positioned using atleast two binding positioned at opposite ends of the plurality ofstuffed sections.

According to another aspect of the apparatus of the present disclosure,the at least one user support attachment may include a shoulder harnesscomprising a pair of looped shoulder harness straps. Each loopedshoulder harness strap of the pair of looped shoulder harness straps mayinclude at least one binding coupled to the respective looped shoulderharness strap and configured to create an upper shoulder harness portionand a lower shoulder harness portion. The lower shoulder harness portionof each looped shoulder harness strap of the pair of looped shoulderharness straps may be configured to receive an arm up to a shoulder ofthe user. The pair of looped shoulder harness straps are coupledtogether proximate to the first binding using a main binding.

According to another aspect of the apparatus of the present disclosure,the lower shoulder harness portion of each looped shoulder harness strapof the pair of looped shoulder harness straps may include an interiorportion containing a padding material.

According to another aspect of the apparatus of the present disclosure,the at least one support hanger may include a pair of support hangersconnected to and extending from the upper portion of the main support.Each support hanger of the pair of support hangers may be configured tobe connected to the support structure at either the first location orthe second location.

According to another aspect of the apparatus of the present disclosure,the at least one support hanger is connected to the support structure.The apparatus may further comprise at least one vine suspension strapalso connected to the support structure. The at least one vinesuspension strap may be laterally offset from the at least one supporthanger.

According to further aspects of the present disclosure, there isprovided an apparatus for aerial exercise of a user while suspended froma support structure. The apparatus is comprised of a main support and atleast one pair of user support loops. The main support is configured tobe connected to the support structure. Each user support loop of the atleast one pair user support loops has an interior portion at leastpartially filled with a padded material. Each user support loop of theat least one pair user support loops has an upper portion and a lowerportion. The upper portion is configured to connect to the main support.The lower portion is configured to support a respective hand, foot, orshoulder of the user.

According to another aspect of the apparatus of the present disclosure,each user support loop of the at least one pair of user support loopsmay include at least one binding. The at least one binding may becoupled to the respective user support loop. The at least one bindingmay be configured to create an upper loop and a lower loop. The upperportion may be part of the upper loop and the lower portion may be partof the lower loop.

According to another aspect of the apparatus of the present disclosure,each user support loop of the at least one pair of user support loopsmay include a respective foot platform having an upper surface and apassageway. The passageway may be configured to bisect a length of thefoot platform. The passageway may further be configured to receive thelower portion of a respective user support loop of the at least one pairof user support loops. The upper surface of each respective footplatform may be configured to support a respective foot of the user.

According to another aspect of the apparatus of the present disclosure,each user support loop of the at least one pair of user support loopsmay include a respective hand grip (or handle) that is configured to bereceived by the lower portion of the lower loop. The respective handgrip may be configured to support a respective hand of the user.

According to another aspect of the apparatus of the present disclosure,the lower loop of each user support loop of the at least one pair ofuser support loops may include a lower interior portion at leastpartially filled with the padded material. The lower loop of each usersupport loop of the at least one pair of user support loops may beconfigured to receive a respective arm up to a respective shoulder ofthe user for supporting the respective shoulder of the user.

According to another aspect of the apparatus of the present disclosure,the at least one binding may divide the interior portion into an upperinterior portion and a lower interior portion. Both the upper and lowerinterior portions of each user support loop of the at least one pair ofuser support loops may be at least partially filled with the paddedmaterial.

According to still further aspects of the present disclosure, there isprovided an apparatus for aerial exercise of a user while suspended froma support structure. The apparatus is comprised of a main support and apair of user support loops. The main support is configured to beconnected to the support structure. The pair of user support loopsextend from the main support. Each user support loop of the pair of usersupport loops has a foot platform connected to a lower portion of therespective user support loop for supporting a respective foot of a user.

According to another aspect of the apparatus of the present disclosure,the main support may include a pair of branches extending from the mainsupport. Each branch of the pair of branches may have a plurality ofsequential connectors. Each user support loop of the pair of usersupport loops has an upper portion that is configured to connect to aselected connector of the plurality of sequential connectors of arespective branch of the pair of branches for positioning the respectivefoot platform a first distance from the main support.

According to another aspect of the apparatus of the present disclosure,each respective foot platform may have a main body, an upper surface,and a passageway. The passageway is configured to receive the lowerportion of a respective user support loop of the pair of user supportloops.

According to another aspect of the apparatus of the present disclosure,the passageway may extend laterally through the foot platform such thatit bisects a length of the foot platform.

According to another aspect of the apparatus of the present disclosure,each respective foot platform may include a pair of vertical channelsconnected to opposite sides of the respective foot platform. The pair ofvertical channels may bisect a length of the respective foot platform.Each respective pair of vertical channels may be configured to receiveand direct the respective user support loop of the pair of user supportloops in a direction perpendicular to the respective foot platform.

According to another aspect of the apparatus of the present disclosure,the passageway may be connected to a lower surface of the respectivefoot platform. The passageway may also bisect a length of the respectivefoot platform. The passageway may span at least a majority of a width ofthe respective foot platform.

According to another aspect of the apparatus of the present disclosure,each respective foot platform may include a pair of vertical holesdisposed through the respective foot platform. Each hole of therespective pair of holes may be positioned at opposite ends of thepassageway. The lower portion of each respective user support loop ofthe pair of user support loops may be configured to pass through thepair of holes for directing the respective user support loop in adirection perpendicular to the upper surface of the respective footplatform.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates an apparatus for aerial exercise hanging from asupport structure in accordance with the present disclosure.

FIG. 2A illustrates an enlarged front elevational view of a main supportbody of the apparatus of FIG. 1 attached to the support structure usinga first anchor strap in accordance with the present disclosure.

FIG. 2B illustrates an enlarged front elevational view of a main supportbody of the apparatus of FIG. 1 attached to the support structure usinga first anchor strap and a second anchor strap in accordance with thepresent disclosure.

FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of a looped leg strap of a pair oflooped leg straps of the apparatus of FIG. 1 in accordance with thepresent disclosure.

FIG. 4A illustrates a lower perspective view of a foot platform of eachlooped leg strap of the apparatus of FIG. 1 in accordance with thepresent disclosure.

FIG. 4B illustrates a lower perspective view of the foot platform ofFIG. 4A having an upper channel in accordance with the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 5 illustrates a lower perspective view of a foot platform of theapparatus in accordance with the present disclosure.

FIG. 6 illustrates a cross-sectional view a respective looped leg strapof the pair of looped leg straps of the apparatus of FIG. 1 taken alongline 6-6 of FIG. 3 in accordance with the present disclosure.

FIG. 7 illustrates an enlarged perspective view of a portion of arespective looped leg strap of the apparatus of FIG. 1 with a user'sfoot engaged with the foot platform in accordance with the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 8 illustrates a front elevational view of a looped arm strap of apair of looped arm straps of the apparatus of FIG. 1 in accordance withthe present disclosure.

FIG. 9A illustrates a perspective view of a handle of the respectivelooped arm strap of FIG. 8 in accordance with the present disclosure.

FIG. 9B illustrates a cross-sectional view of the handle of FIG. 8 ofthe respective looped arm strap taken along line 9B-9B of FIG. 9A inaccordance with the present disclosure.

FIG. 10 illustrates a cross-sectional view a respective looped arm strapof the pair of looped arm straps of the apparatus of FIG. 1 taken alongline 10-10 of FIG. 8 in accordance with the present disclosure.

FIG. 11 illustrates a front elevational view of a shoulder harness ofthe apparatus of FIG. 1 in accordance with the present disclosure.

FIG. 12 illustrates a cross-sectional view a shoulder harness loop ofthe shoulder harness of the apparatus of FIG. 1 taken along line 12-12of FIG. 11 in accordance with the present disclosure.

FIG. 13 illustrates a schematic view of a beginner shoulder harnessmaterial for attachment to the apparatus of FIG. 1 in accordance withthe present disclosure.

FIG. 14 illustrates top plan view of a beginner shoulder harness forattachment to the apparatus of FIG. 1 in accordance with the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 15 illustrates a rear elevational view of the beginner shoulderharness of FIG. 15 attached to the apparatus of FIG. 1 and engaged auser in accordance with the present disclosure.

FIG. 16 illustrates a schematic view of a seat for attachment to theapparatus of FIG. 1 in accordance with the present disclosure.

FIG. 17 illustrates a top plan view of a seat for attachment to theapparatus of FIG. 1 configured in an expanded position in accordancewith the present disclosure.

FIG. 18 illustrates a top plan view of the seat of FIG. 17 configured ina rolled position in accordance with the present disclosure.

FIG. 19 illustrates a front elevational view of the apparatus of FIG. 1having a user in a standing position engaged with the pair of looped legstraps, the pair of looped arm straps, and the shoulder harness inaccordance with the present disclosure.

FIG. 20 illustrates a perspective view of the apparatus of FIG. 1 havinga user in a stretching position engaged with the pair of looped legstraps, the pair of looped arm straps, and the shoulder harness inaccordance with the present disclosure.

FIG. 21 illustrates a side elevational view of the apparatus of FIG. 1having a user in a seated position engaged with the pair of looped legstraps, the beginner shoulder hardness, and the seat in the expandedposition in accordance with the present disclosure.

FIG. 22 illustrates a side elevational view of the apparatus of FIG. 1having a user in a horizontal position engaged with the pair of loopedleg straps, the beginner shoulder hardness, and the seat in the rolledposition in accordance with the present disclosure.

FIG. 23 illustrates a front elevational view of the apparatus of FIG. 1having a user in an inverted position engaged with the pair of loopedleg straps in accordance with the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments of the presentdisclosure, one or more drawings of which are set forth herein. Eachdrawing is provided by way of explanation of the present disclosure andis not a limitation. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled inthe art that various modifications and variations can be made to theteachings of the present disclosure without departing from the scope ofthe disclosure. For instance, features illustrated or described as partof one embodiment can be used with another embodiment to yield a stillfurther embodiment.

Thus, it is intended that the present disclosure covers suchmodifications and variations as come within the scope of the appendedclaims and their equivalents. Other objects, features, and aspects ofthe present disclosure are disclosed in, or are obvious from, thefollowing detailed description. It is to be understood by one ofordinary skill in the art that the present discussion is a descriptionof exemplary embodiments only and is not intended as limiting thebroader aspects of the present disclosure.

The words “connected”, “attached”, “joined”, “mounted”, “fastened”, andthe like should be interpreted to mean any manner of joining two objectsincluding, but not limited to, the use of any fasteners such as screws,nuts and bolts, bolts, pin and clevis, thread, glue, and the likeallowing for a stationary, translatable, or pivotable relationship;welding of any kind such as traditional MIG welding, TIG welding,friction welding, brazing, soldering, ultrasonic welding, torch welding,inductive welding, and the like; using any resin, glue, epoxy, and thelike; being integrally formed as a single part together; any mechanicalfit such as a friction fit, interference fit, slidable fit, rotatablefit, pivotable fit, and the like; any combination thereof; and the like.

A “binding” as used herein should be interpreted to mean any means ofsecurely cinching a material or group of materials together. A “binding”as used herein may be a tube-like structure (e.g., rubber tubbing, heatshrink tubing, plastic tubing, or the like) which is configured toreceive the material or group of materials and cinch them together. A“binding” as used herein may be a wrap (e.g., material, string, or thelike) which is wrapped or wound around the material or group ofmaterials to cinch them together. A “binding” as used herein may also bea cylindrical clip capable of being easily removed and configured toreceive the material or group of materials and cinch them together.

A “clip” as used herein should be interpreted to mean any means ofsecurely connected two items including a carabiner, a screw link, aD-ring, or the like. The “clip” should generally provide non-permanentconnection; however, the “clip” may provide permanent connection.

Unless specifically stated otherwise, any part of the apparatus of thepresent disclosure may be made of any appropriate or suitable materialincluding, but not limited to, metal, alloy, polymer, polymer mixture,wood, composite, or any combination thereof.

Referring to FIGS. 1, 15, 19-23, an apparatus 100 for aerial exercise ofa user 10 while suspended from a support structure 30 is provided. Theapparatus 100 may also be referred to herein as a swing apparatus 100.The support structure 30 may be any horizontal or inclined structure(e.g., a ceiling, a support beam, a tree branch, or the like) capable ofattachment thereto and having adequate clearance thereunder for theapparatus 100 to hang and swing. The apparatus 100 may have manypossible uses such as exercise, fun & enjoyment, stretching, martialarts training, yoga, dance training, gymnastics training, physicaltherapy, psychological therapy, inversion therapy, motion sicknesstherapy, tandem swinging, zip lining, bungee swing, amusement ride, andexercise class equipment.

The apparatus 100 comprises a main support body 110, at least onesupport anchor strap 120, a pair of branches 130, and at least one usersupport attachment 140. The main support body 110 may also be referredto herein as a main support 110 or a swing center 110. The at least onesupport anchor strap 120 may also be referred to herein as at least onesupport hanger 120. The pair of branches 130 may also be referred toherein as a pair of daisy chains 130.

As can best be seen in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the main support body 110 mayinclude an upper portion 112 and a lower portion 114. The lower portion114 is rotatably connected to the upper portion 112, for example byusing a ball bearing rotational device. The upper portion 112 includesan upper attachment loop 116 extending away from the lower portion 114.The lower portion 114 includes a lower attachment loop 118 extendingaway from the upper portion 112. The upper and lower attachment loops116, 118 may be semicircular shaped and capable of securely receivingattachments such as carabiners. The upper and lower attachment loops116, 118 may be shaped differently in other embodiments, such astriangular or the like.

The at least one anchor strap 120 extends from upper portion 112 of themain support body 110 and is configured to connect the main support body110 to the support structure 30. As can best be seen in FIG. 1, the atleast one anchor strap 120 is configured to be connected to the supportstructure 30 at both a first location 32 and a second location 34,simultaneously. By connecting the at least one anchor strap 120 to boththe first and second locations 32, 34 the apparatus 100 is limited to aswing path along a single vertical plane to provide for a safe andpredicable swing experience. Each anchor strap of the at least oneanchor strap 120 includes a first end 122 and a second end 124. Thefirst attachment location 32 of the support structure 30 is spaced apartfrom the second attachment location 34 of the support structure 30 by ahanger gap distance 36. The hanger gap distance 36 may be greater thanor equal to the distance between the main support body 110 and thesupport structure 30. Furthermore, the hanger gap distance 36 may be atleast 4 feet.

In other embodiments (not shown), the main body 110 may be connected tothe support structure 30 at a single location to enable anomnidirectional swing pattern. Such an embodiment is more advanced insome aspects and thus requires full 360-degree clearance around theapparatus 100 for safety.

As can best be seen in FIG. 2A, the at least one anchor strap includes afirst anchor strap 120A that extends through the upper attachment loop116. The first anchor strap 120A includes a first end 122A and a secondend 124A. The first end 122A may be configured to be connected to thesupport structure 30 at the first attachment location 32 and the secondend 124A may be configured to be connected to the support structure atthe second attachment location 34. The first and second ends 122A, 124Aof the first anchor strap may each include a clip for connecting withthe first and second attachment locations 32, 34, respectively. In otherembodiments (not shown), rather than extending through the upperattachment loop 116, the first anchor strap 120A may include a mid-pointanchor loop that may be connected to the upper attachment loop 116 usinga clip.

As can best be seen in FIG. 2B, the at least one anchor strap 120 mayinclude the first anchor strap 120A and a second anchor strap 120B. Thefirst and second anchor straps 120A, 120B may also be referred to hereinas a pair of anchor straps or a pair of support hangers. The secondanchor strap 120B includes a first end 122B and a second end 124B. Thefirst ends 122A, 122B of each of the first and second anchor straps120A, 120B may be connected to the upper attachment loop 116 of theupper portion 112 of the main support body 110. The second end 124A ofthe first anchor strap 120A may be connected to the first attachmentlocation 32. The second end 124B of the second anchor strap 120B may beconnected to the second attachment location 34.

The connections between the ends of the straps and the respectiveattachment locations may be attained by direct connection using clips.For example, each respective clip could attach to one of a plurality ofI-bolts 38 extending from each of the first and second attachmentlocations 32, 34 of the support structure 30 or could attach to theupper attachment loop 116. Alternatively, the connections between theends of the straps and the respective attachment locations (e.g., thesupport structure 30 or the upper portion 112 of the main support body110) may be attained by looping the ends of the straps around or throughrespective attachment locations and attaching the ends back to itsrespective strap using clips.

The pair of branches 130 are connected to and extend from the lowerattachment loop 118 of the lower portion 114 of the main support body110. The pair of branches 130 is configured to receive the at least oneuser support attachment 140. The pair of branches 130 may include aplurality of attachment loops 132 positioned sequentially along eachbranch of the pair of branches 130. Although the pair of branches 130are illustrated as metal chains (FIG. 2A), it is contemplated that inother embodiments the pair of branches 130 may be a daisy chain material(FIG. 2B) such as a nylon daisy chain strap, or the like.

As can best be seen in FIG. 2B, the pair of branches 130 may include afirst branch 130A and a second branch 130B. Each of the first and secondbranches 130A, 130B is connected to and extends from the lowerattachment loop 118 of the lower portion 114 of the main support body110. The first and second branches 130A, 130B may be individuallyconnected to the lower attachment loop 118 using clips.

As can best been seen in FIG. 2A, the first and second branches 130A,130B forming the pair of branches 130 may be integrally formed andconnected to the lower attachment loop 118 simultaneously. For example,the integrally formed pair of branches 130 may include a midpointattachment loop 134 that is configured to be attached to the lowerattachment loop 118 of the lower portion 114 of the main support body110. The midpoint attachment loop 134 may be connected to the lowerattachment loop 118 using a clip. This configuration may help ensurethat each of the integrally formed pair of branches 130 does not shiftup or down when each branch 130A, 130B receives the at least one usersupport attachment 140.

The at least one user support attachment 140 may include at least onepair of user support loops 142. The at least one pair of user supportloops 142 may be a pair of looped leg straps 150, a pair of looped armstraps 200, or a shoulder harness 240.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 3, the pair of looped leg straps 150 mayinclude a first looped leg strap 150A and a second looped leg strap150B. The first and second looped leg straps 150A, 150B are identical.For simplicity, the first and second looped leg straps 150A, 150B willbe referred to as the pair of looped leg straps 150 and common elementswill be numbered similarly.

Each looped leg strap of the pair of looped leg straps 150 is connectedto and extends from a respective branch of the pair of branches 130. Ascan best be seen in FIG. 3, each looped leg strap 150A, 150B of the pairof looped leg straps 150 may have an upper portion 152, a lower portion154, and a looped leg strap length 156 defined between the upper portion152 and the lower portion 154. The upper portion 152 may include a clip158 for connecting the upper portion 152 to a respective branch of thepair of branches 130 at a selected attachment loop of the plurality ofattachment loops 132. The lower portion 154 is configured to support arespective foot 12 (FIGS. 19-23) of the user 10.

As can best be seen in FIGS. 3-5, the lower portion 154 of each loopedleg strap of the pair of looped leg straps 150 may include a footplatform 160. The foot platform 160 is configured to receive and supporta respective foot 12 of the user 10. The foot platform 160 includes amain body 162. The main body 162 of the foot platform may also bereferred to herein as a base 162. The main body 162 is generally shapedas a rectangular cuboid having a height H, a length L, and a width W.The main body 162 may be made from a selected material such as plastic,rubber, metal, wood, a combination thereof, or the like.

The main body 162 of the foot platform 160 includes an upper surface 164defined by the length L and the width W of the main body 162. The footplatform 160 may include a padded layer 166 disposed on at least theupper surface 164. The padded layer 166 may be any suitable materialthat provides traction, support, and comfort (e.g., rubber, foam, or thelike). In some embodiments, particularly those meant for outdoor use,the padded layer 166 may merely be applied for added traction. In otherembodiments (not shown), the padded layer 166 may include be contouredto the shape of the human foot to provide arch support and heel and toegrooves.

The foot platform 160 further includes a passageway 168 configured toreceive the lower portion 154 a respective looped leg strap of the paidof looped leg straps 150. The passageway 168 is configured to bisect thelength L of the foot platform 160. As can best be seen in FIGS. 4A and4B, the passageway 168 may be connected to a lower surface 170 of thefoot platform 160. When connected to the lower surface 170 of the footplatform 160, the passageway 168 spans at least a majority of the widthW of the foot platform 160.

As can best be seen in FIGS. 4A and 4B, the foot platform 160 mayfurther include a pair of vertical channels 172 positioned on oppositesides of the foot platform 160. The pair of vertical channels 172 arepositioned on the sides of the foot platform 160 bisecting the length Lof the main body 162. The pair of vertical channels 172 are disposed inthe sides of the foot platform 160 (e.g., are carved into the sides).The pair of vertical channels 172 are configured to receive the lowerportion 154 of the respective looped leg strap and to direct therespective looped leg strap in a direction perpendicular to the uppersurface 164 of the foot platform 160. In other embodiments (not shown),the pair of vertical channels 172 may extend from the sides of the mainbody 162 of the foot platform 160.

As can best be seen in FIG. 4A, the pair of vertical channels 172 mayeach include a cover 174 that is configured to be connected torespective sides of the of the foot platform 160 adjacent to arespective vertical channel of the pair of vertical channels 172. Eachcover 174 is configured to ensure that the lower portion 154 of therespective looped leg strap does not come out of the respective channelduring use of the pair of looped leg straps 150 by the user 10. Thecover 174 may also be referred to herein as a cap 174 or a closure 174.The cover 174 may be at least partially detachable from the respectivevertical channel. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 4B, each foot platform160 may include an upper channel 176 with a looped binding 178 disposedtherein. The upper channel 176 may be positioned below the padded layer166. The upper binding 178 may span the width W of the main body 162 andloop around the lower portion 154 of the respective looped leg strapdisposed in the pair of vertical channels 172.

As can best be seen in 5, the passageway 168 may be defined through themain body 162 of the foot platform 160 in a direction parallel with thewidth W of the main body 162. The passageway 168 may intersect the pairof vertical channels 172. The padded layer 166 in this embodiment maywrap around the upper surface, 164, the lower surface 170, and the frontand rear of the main body 162 of the foot platform 160.

In some embodiments (not shown), when the passageway 168 is attached tothe bottom and does not span the entire width W of the foot platform160, the main body 162 may include a pair of vertical holes (not shown)disposed through the main body 162 between the upper surface 164 and thelower surface 170. The lower portion 154 of a respective looped legstrap of the pair of looped leg straps 150 may be configured to passthrough the pair of vertical holes for directing the respective loopedleg strap in a direction perpendicular to the upper surface 164 of thefoot platform 160.

In other embodiments (not shown), the foot platform 160 may bereversible, having a contoured padding (not shown) attached to the uppersurface 164 and a non-slip padding (now shown) attached to the lowersurface 170. In this embodiment, the passageway 168 would span throughthe main body 162 bisecting the length L and the height H of the mainbody 162. The pair of vertical channels 172 would be disposed in thesides of the main body bisecting the length L, as preciously described.However, in this embodiment, the pair of vertical channels 172 would bepositioned above and below the passageway basically spanned between theupper surface 164 and the lower surface 170 of the main body 162 of thefoot platform 160. Accordingly, the upper surface 164 could bepositioned in an upward direction or the lower surface 170 could bepositioned in an upward direction with the pair of vertical channels 172ensuring that the respective looped leg strap extends in a directionperpendicular to either the upper surface 164 or the lower surface 170of the foot platform 160.

In still further embodiments (not shown), the passageway 168 of the footplatform 160 may include an integrally formed horizontal portion withtwo vertical portions (not shown) extending from either end of thehorizontal portion. The vertical portions may be configured to directthe respective looped leg strap in a direction perpendicular to theupper surface 164 of the foot platform 160, similarly to the pair ofvertical channels 172.

In still further embodiments (not shown), the foot platform 160 mayinclude the pair of vertical channels 172 to the exclusion of thepassageway 168. The pair of vertical channels 172 would still beconnected to the sides of the main body 162 bisecting the length L ofthe main body 162. The lower portion 154 of the respective looped legstrap of the pair of looped leg straps 150 supports the lower surface170 of the main body 162 and the pair of vertical channels 172 receivethe lower portion 154 for directing the respective looped leg strap in adirection perpendicular to the upper surface 164 of the foot platform160.

As can best be seen in FIG. 6, each looped leg strap of the pair oflooped leg straps 150 may include an interior portion 180. The interiorportion 180 of each looped leg strap may also be referred to herein asan interior tube 180. The interior portion 180 may be created based uponthe construction of how each looped leg strap of the pair of looped legstraps 150 is formed. The interior portion 180 may begin and end at theupper portion 152 of each looped leg strap.

The interior portion 180 may contain a padding material 182. The paddingmaterial 182 may at least partially fill the interior portion 180. Asillustrated, the interior portion 180 is stuffed with the paddingmaterial 182. The padding material 182 may be a shredded memory foammaterial (e.g., synthetic latex foam, natural memory foam, or the like).The padding material may also include a shredded gel material that mayhelp dissipate heat from the user 10. The padding material 182 may beselected based on its firmness and density in order to providesufficient comfort and support to the user 10.

As can best been seen in FIG. 3, each looped leg strap of the pair oflooped leg straps 150 may include at least one binding 190 that iscoupled to the looped leg strap and configured to create at least afirst upper loop 192 and a second lower loop 194. The first upper loop192 of each looped leg strap may include the upper portion 152 and theclip 158. The second lower loop 194 of each looped leg strap may includethe lower portion 154 and the foot platform 160. Ideally, the at leastone binding should be positioned in line with a hip of the user 10. Thisplacement provides the user 10 better safety and support while alsoallowing the user 10 to attain advanced body positioning.

The combination of the at least one binding 190 and the foot platform160 divide the interior portion 180 of each looped leg strap of the pairof looped leg straps 150 into four interior portions. Each of the fourinterior portions may contain the padding material 182. As illustrated,each of the four interior portions is filled with the padding material182.

As can best be seen in FIGS. 3 and 7, each looped leg strap of the pairof looped leg straps 150 may include at least one looped strap 196positioned around the lower portion 154 of the respective looped legstrap. The at least one looped strap 196 may also be referred to hereinas at least one crutch 196. The at least one looped strap 196 may beadjusted to various positioned between the foot platform 160 and the atleast one binding 190. As can best be seen in FIG. 7, the at least onelooped strap 196 provides additional support to the user 10 bystabilizing the foot 12, the ankle, and the leg up to the hips of theuser 10. The at least one looped strap 196 may be fashioned from rubberor some other material that provides comfort and does not slip along thelower portion 154 of the respective looped leg strap. Each looped legstrap of the pair of looped leg straps 150 may also include a pluralityof tubes 198 coupled thereto proximate to the foot platform 160 forkeeping the at least one looped strap 196 in position when placed nearthe foot platform 160 where there is minimal padding material 182.

The pair of looped leg straps 150 serve a double purpose besidessupporting the feet 12 of the user 10. The pair of looped leg straps 150may be used as a body harness based on their configuration within theapparatus 100. The upper portion 152 of each looped leg strap of thepair of looped leg straps 150 may support the back 20 of the user 10because each looped leg strap rises from the user's feet, up the legs,and in direct line with the hips and shoulder blades. This arrangementprovides the user 10 with stability from behind so as to not fall back.By slipping the knees inside of the lower portion 154 of each looped legstrap up to the thigh of the user 10, the lower portion 154 provides theuser with stability from the front as to not fall forward.

Referring now to FIG. 8, the pair of looped arm straps 200 may include afirst looped arm strap 200A and a second looped arm strap 200B. Thefirst and second looped arm straps 200A, 200B are identical. Forsimplicity, the first and second looped arm straps 200A, 200B will bereferred to as the pair of looped arm straps 200 and common elementswill be numbered similarly.

Each looped arm strap of the pair of looped arm straps 200 is connectedto and extends from a respective branch of the pair of branches 130.Each looped arm strap of the pair of looped arm straps 200 may have anupper portion 202, a lower portion 204, and a looped arm strap length206 defined between the upper portion 202 and the lower portion 204. Theupper portion 202 may include a clip 208 for connecting the upperportion 202 to a respective branch of the pair of branches 130 at aselected attachment loop of the plurality of attachment loops 132. Thelower portion 204 is configured to support a respective hand 14 (FIGS.15, 19-22) of the user 10.

As can best be seen in FIG. 8, the lower portion 204 of each looped armstrap of the pair of looped arm straps 200 may include a handle 210surrounding the portion 204. The handle 160 is configured to receive andsupport a respective hand 14 of the user 10. Shown in more detail inFIGS. 9A and 9B, the handle 210 has a generally cylindrical body 212 anda passageway 214. The passageway 214 is configured to receive the lowerportion 204 of the respective looped arm strap of the pair of looped armstraps 200. The cylindrical body 212 of the handle 210 may be made froma soft/smooth selected material such as plastic, metal, wood, acombination thereof, or the like. The handle 210 may include paddedlayer 216 surrounding the cylindrical body 212 for increased usercomfort.

As can best be seen in FIG. 10, each looped arm strap of the pair oflooped arm straps 200 may include an interior portion 220. The interiorportion 220 of each looped arm strap may also be referred to herein asan interior tube 220. The interior portion 220 of each looped arm strapmay be formed similarly to the interior portion 180 of each looped legstrap of the pair of looped leg straps. Accordingly, the interiorportion 220 of each looped arm strap may be created based upon theconstruction of how each looped arm strap of the pair of looped armstraps 200 is formed. The interior portion 220 may begin and end at theupper portion 202 of each looped leg strap.

The interior portion 220 of each looped arm strap may contain a paddingmaterial 222. The padding material 222 may at least partially fill theinterior portion 220. As illustrated, the interior portion 220 isstuffed with the padding material 222. The padding material 222 may be ashredded memory foam material (e.g., synthetic latex foam, naturalmemory foam, or the like). The padding material 222 may also include ashredded gel material that may help dissipate heat from the user 10. Thepadding material 222 may be selected based on its firmness and densityin order to provide sufficient comfort and support to the user 10.

As can best been seen in FIG. 8, each looped arm strap of the pair oflooped arm straps 200 may include at least one binding 230 that iscoupled to the looped arm strap and is configured to create at least afirst upper loop 232 and a second lower loop 234. The first upper loop232 of each looped leg strap may include the upper portion 202 and theclip 208. The second lower loop 234 of each looped leg strap may includethe lower portion 204 and the handle 210.

The combination of the at least one binding 230 and the handle 210divide the interior portion 220 of each looped arm strap of the pair oflooped arm straps 200 into four interior portions. Each of the fourinterior portions may contain the padding material 222. As illustrated,each of the four interior portions is filled with the padding material222.

The pair of looped leg straps 150 and the pair of looped arm straps 200are each considered to be a pair of user support loops 142. There aretwo main differences between the pair of looped leg straps 150 and thepair of looped arm straps 200. The first difference is that the loopedleg strap length 156 is longer than the looped arm strap length 206. Thesecond difference is that the pair of looped leg straps 150 includes thefoot platforms 160 whereas the pair of looped arm straps 200 includesthe handles 210.

When the pair of looped leg straps 150 and the pair of looped arm straps200 are configured for use by the user in a standing position (FIG. 19)the respective upper portions 202 of the pair of looped arm straps 200are connected to respective branches of the pair of branches 130 at ahigher attachment loop of the plurality of attachment loops 132 than therespective upper portions 152 of the pair of looped leg straps 150.

When the pair of looped leg straps 150 and the pair of looped arm straps200 are configured for use by the user in a stretching position (FIG.20) the respective upper portions 202 of the pair of looped arm straps200 are connected to respective branches of the pair of branches 130 ata same attachment loop or a lower attachment loop of the plurality ofattachment loops 132 than the respective upper portions 152 of the pairof looped leg straps 150.

Referring now to FIG. 11, the shoulder harness 240 may include a pair ofshoulder harness loops 242. Each shoulder harness loop of the pair ofshoulder harness loops 242 may extend from a respective branch of thepair of branches 130. The pair of shoulder harness loops 242 are boundtogether using a main tube 244. The main tube 244 serves to bind thepair of shoulder harness loops 242 together.

Each shoulder harness loop of the pair of shoulder harness loops 242 mayinclude at least one binding 246. The at least one binding includes afirst binding 246A that is coupled to a respective shoulder harness loopof the pair of shoulder harness loops 242. The first binding 246A isconfigured to create at least an upper shoulder harness portion 248 anda lower shoulder harness portion 250. The main tube 244 is coupledproximate to the first binding 246A. As illustrated, the main tube 244couples the pair of shoulder harness loops 242 together just above therespective first binding 246A of each shoulder harness loop.

The upper shoulder harness portion 248 of each shoulder harness loop ofthe pair of shoulder harness loops 242 may include a clip 252 extendingfrom an upper end 254. The clip 250 is configured to connect the pair ofshoulder harness loops 242 to respective branches of the pair ofbranches 130 at a selected attachment loop of the plurality ofattachment loops 132. Each shoulder harness loop of the pair of shoulderharness loops 242 begins and ends at the upper end 252.

As can best been seen in FIG. 12, each shoulder harness loop of the pairof shoulder harness loops 242 may be formed to include an interiorportion 256. The interior portion 256 is only shown of the lowershoulder harness portion 250. The interior portion 256, however, may runthroughout each shoulder harness loop similar to the interior portions180, 220 of the pair of looped leg straps 150 and the pair of looped armstraps 200, respectively.

The lower shoulder harness portion 250 of each shoulder harness loop ofthe pair of shoulder harness loops 242 may include a second binding 246Band a third binding 246C. The second and third binding 246B, 246C may bepositioned directly below the first binding 246A. The second and thirdbinding 246B, 246C may be coupled to respective branches of the lowershoulder harness portion 250 for defining a lower interior portion 258of each shoulder harness loop of the pair of shoulder harness loops 242.In some embodiments, the lower interior portion 258 may be defined usingonly the first binding 246A.

The lower interior portion 258 may contain a padding material 260similar to the padding material 182, 222 of the pair of looped legstraps 150 and the pair of looped arm straps 200, respectively. Thelower shoulder harness portion 250 of each shoulder harness loop of thepair of shoulder harness loops 242 may be configured to receive arespective arm 16 (FIGS. 15, 19-22) of the user 10 all the way up to ashoulder 18 (FIGS. 15, 19-22) of the user associated with the respectivearm 16. The padding material 260 may help provide comfort to the user 10while wearing the shoulder harness 240 as well as provide an additionalsafety measure to the user 10.

Referring to FIGS. 13-15, the at least one user support attachment 140may further include a beginner shoulder harness 270. The beginnershoulder harness 270 includes a generally rectangular material 272having a first end 274, a second end 276, and a length 278 definedbetween the first and second ends 274, 276. The first and second ends274, 276 are positioned at opposite ends of the rectangular material272. The rectangular material 272 further includes a width 280 definedperpendicularly to the length 278.

The first end 274 of the rectangular material 272 is bunched togetherusing a first clip 282. The second end 276 of the rectangular material272 is bunched together using a second clip 284. Each of the first andsecond clips 282, 284 is coupled to a different respective branch of thepair of branches 130 at a selected attachment loop of the plurality ofattachment loops 132.

The beginner shoulder harness 270 may further include a plurality ofstuffed sections 286 connected to the rectangular material 272. Theplurality of stuffed sections 286 are positioned midway between thefirst end 274 and the second end 276. The plurality of stuffed sections286 are sequentially spaced along a portion of the length 278 of therectangular material 272. The plurality of stuffed sections 286 span thewidth 280 of the rectangular material 272. The plurality of stuffedsections may be at least partially filled with a padding material (notshown).

As can best be seen in Fig. ???, The beginner shoulder harness 270supports the user 10 by positioning the plurality of stuffed sections286 along a back 20 (FIG. 15) of the user 10, under each respective arm16, and in front of each respective shoulder 18 of the user 10 beforeeach of the first and second ends 274, 276 extends therefrom to connectto its respective branch of the pair of branches 130.

Referring to FIGS. 16-18, the at least one user support attachment 140may further include a seat 300. The seat 300 is formed similarly to thatof the beginner shoulder harness 270. The seat 300 includes a generallyrectangular material 302 having a first end 304, a second end 306, and alength 308 defined between the first and second ends 304, 306. The firstand second ends 304, 306 are positioned at opposite ends of therectangular material 302. The rectangular material 302 further includesa width 310 defined perpendicularly to the length 308.

The first end 304 of the rectangular material 302 is bunched togetherusing a first clip 312. The second end 306 of the rectangular material302 is bunched together using a second clip 314. Each of the first andsecond clips 312, 314 is coupled to a different respective branch of thepair of branches 130 at a selected attachment loop of the plurality ofattachment loops 132.

The seat 300 may further include a plurality of stuffed sections 316connected to the rectangular material 302. The plurality of stuffedsections 316 may be aligned and sequentially spaced along the width 310of the rectangular material 302. The plurality of stuffed sections 316may be positioned midway between the first end 304 and the second end306. The plurality of stuffed sections 316 span a minority of the length306 of the rectangular material 302.

As can best be seen in FIG. 17-18, the plurality of stuffed sections 316are each at least partially filled with a padding material. The seat 300can be configured in either an expanded position 320 (shown in FIG. 17)or a rolled position 322 (shown in FIG. 18). The seat 300 whenconfigured in the expanded position 320 is generally shaped forreceiving the back 20 and a rear end 22 (FIGS. 15 and 22) of the user10. When in the expanded position 320, the seat 300 is much like ahammock. The seat 300 when configured in the rolled positioned 322 hasthe plurality of stuffed sections 316 rolled together for supportingeither the back 20 or the rear end 22 of the user 10. The plurality ofstuffed sections 316 are held together in the rolled position 322 usinga first binding 324 and a second binding 326. The first and secondbindings 324, 326 may be positioned proximate to opposite ends of theplurality of stuffed sections 316 when the seat 300 is configured in therolled position 322. The first and second bindings 324, 326 may bepositioned proximate to the first and second ends 304, 306 of therectangular material 302 when the seat 300 is configured in the expandedposition 320.

As can best be seen in FIG. 1, the apparatus 100 may further include atleast one vine suspension strap 330 connected to the support structure30. Each vine of the at least one vine suspension strap 330 may belaterally offset in front of or behind the at least one anchor strap120.

Each vine suspension strap of the at least one vine suspension strap 330includes an upper end 332 and a lower end 334. The upper end 332 of eachvine suspension strap includes a clip 336 for attachment to the supportstructure 30. The clip 336 may either be attached directly to thesupport structure 30 (e.g., one of the plurality of I-bolts 38) or maybe attached to a strap 338 which is connected to and extends from thesupport structure 30.

Each vine suspension strap of the at least one vine suspension strap 330may further include an interior portion and a plurality of binding 342.The interior portion is at least partially filled with a paddingmaterial. The plurality of bindings 342 are uniformly spaced along thethe at least one vine suspension strap 330 between the upper end 332 andthe lower end 334. Between each binding of the plurality of bindings342, the interior portion is at least partially filled with the paddingmaterial to create a plurality of padded grab handles 346.

The apparatus 100 can be used while swinging or while stationary. Theapparatus 100 is designed to be operated as an entire body exercise andtraining solution and it can be self-propelled using the user's own bodyor by pulling and manipulating the at least one vine 330.

Each of the at least one user support attachment, such as the pair oflooped leg straps 150, the pair of looped arm straps 200, the shoulderharness 240, the beginner shoulder harness 270, and the seat 300, andthe at least one vine 330 is made from a silk, polyester, or some othernon-stretch material.

The apparatus 100 can be built in a standard one size fits all, standarduniversal sizes (S, M, L, XL), or can be customized to fit each user'sspecific body measurements such as foot/leg/knee/hip measurements, torsolength, arm/shoulder/elbow measurements, and body weight.

The apparatus 100 is designed to contour to the user's body. Theapparatus 100 provides comfort and stability to the user 10 by spreadingthe load of user's weight. By incorporating a padding material into thevarious user support attachments, this benefits the user 10 by spreadingload to the user's body where it contacts the apparatus 100 components.This provides additional support to the user by spreading the user'sweight onto the various user support attachments. For example, when theuser is standing upright on the apparatus, the padding material 222, 182in the pair of looped arm straps 200 and the pair of looped leg straps150, respectively, alone can assist with the amount of weight the user'sfeet need to support, normally the entire bodyweight. However, when onthe apparatus 100 the weight on the user's feet can range from ˜20% to˜80% because of the amount of padded surface that touches the user'sbody as well as the inward and centripetal force that occurs when theusers is on the swing standing up.

The main support body 110 and the pair of branches 130 of the apparatus100 are the main points of adjustability when used properly. By settingthe height of the pair of looped leg straps 150 and the height of thepair of looped arm straps 200 at various selected attachment loops ofthe plurality of attachment loops 132, the apparatus 100 can be adjustedfor various uses.

Referring to FIGS. 19-23, the apparatus 100 is shown in use. Theapparatus 100 contours to the user's body, which allows a user 10 tosafely use the apparatus 100 in many different positions such asstanding, stretching, seated, horizontally, or inverted, just to name afew. As shown in FIG. 19, the apparatus 100 is shown with a user 10 in astanding position. For example, by connecting the pair of looped armstraps 200 to a selected attachment loop of the plurality of attachmentloops 132 higher than the pair of looped leg straps 150, the user 10 maybe more upright in the standing position. The standing position can beused for stretching (FIG. 20), strength building, cardio swing training,or the like. In the standing position, the swing can also simulatemovements and feelings similar to those of a skater using a half-piperamp or the spinning of a dancer or ice skater.

As shown in FIG. 20, the apparatus 100 is shown with a user 10 in astretching position. For example, by connecting the pair of looped armstraps 200 to a selected attachment loop of the plurality of attachmentloops 132 lower than the pair of looped leg straps 150, the user 10 canbe better supported for more lower body work like stretching and lowerback exercises.

As shown in FIG. 21, the apparatus 100 is shown with a user in a seatedposition. In the seated position, the seat 300 and either the shoulderharness 240 or the beginner shoulder harness 270 allow the user 10 tosit comfortably and safely while swinging. For use of the apparatus 100in the seated position, the seat 300 is configured in the expandedposition 320. By incorporating either of the shoulder harnesses 240, 270into the seated position, the position of the user's body is alteredsuch that movements needed for propelling the swing in a swinging motionrequire full engagement of the user's muscles including the user's core(e.g., front muscles, side muscles, and back muscles) and the user'supper body (e.g., arm muscles, shoulder muscles, and back muscles). Theseated position may also incorporate the pair of looped leg straps 150thus allowing the user 10 to engage leg muscles as well for manipulatingthe swinging motion of the apparatus 100.

As shown in FIG. 22, the apparatus 100 is shown with a user 10 in ahorizontal position. In the horizontal position, the seat 300 and thebeginner shoulder harness 270 allow the user 10 to lay comfortably andsafely while swinging. For use of the apparatus 100 in the horizontalposition, the seat 300 is shown configured in the rolled position 322.As illustrated, the shoulder harness 270 and the seat 300 are boundtogether using one or more auxiliary bindings 350. The one or moreauxiliary bindings 350 are optional and are configured to change theorientation of the shoulder harness 270 and the seat 300 relative toeach other. In the seated position, the shoulder harness 270 and theseat 300 are shown not bound together. The one or more auxiliarybindings 350 may be used to bind any combination of the at least oneuser support attachment 140 together.

As shown in FIG. 23, the apparatus 100 is shown with a user 10 in aninverted position. Many different inverted positions are possible withthis apparatus 100. The particular inverted position shown is madepossible using only the pair of looped leg straps 150 with the footplatforms 160. The combination of the padding material 182 inside thepair of looped leg straps 150 and the foot platforms 160 may invertedpositions using the apparatus 100 very comfortable for the user 10.

The previous detailed description has been provided for the purposes ofillustration and description. Thus, although there have been describedparticular embodiments of a new and useful invention, it is not intendedthat such references be construed as limitations upon the scope of thisinvention except as set forth in the following claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. An apparatus for aerial exercise of a user whilesuspended from a support structure, the apparatus comprising: a mainsupport having an upper portion and a lower portion, the lower portionbeing rotatably connected to the upper portion; at least one supporthanger extending from the upper portion of the main support, the atleast one support hanger being configured to be connected to the supportstructure at both a first location and a second location spaced apartfrom the first location; and a pair of branches connected to andextending from the lower portion of the main support, the pair ofbranches being configured to receive at least one user supportattachment.
 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein: each branch of thepair of branches includes a plurality of attachment loops positionedsequentially along the respective branch.
 3. The apparatus of claim 1,wherein: the pair of branches is integrally formed and includes amidpoint attachment loop being configured to be attached to the lowerportion of the main support.
 4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein: theat least one user support attachment includes a pair of looped legstraps, each looped leg strap of the pair of looped leg straps connectedto and extending from a respective branch of the pair of branches, eachlooped leg strap configured to support a respective foot of the user. 5.The apparatus of claim 4, wherein: each looped leg strap of the pair oflooped leg straps includes a foot platform configured to receive arespective foot of the user.
 6. The apparatus of claim 4 wherein: eachlooped leg strap of the pair of looped leg straps includes an interiorportion containing a padding material.
 7. The apparatus of claim 4,wherein: each looped leg strap of the pair of looped leg straps includesat least one binding coupled to the respective looped leg strap andconfigured to create a first upper loop and a second lower loop.
 8. Theapparatus of claim 7, wherein: the second lower loop of each looped legstrap includes a respective foot platform having an upper surface and apassageway configured to receive a lower portion of the second lowerloop; and the passageway extends laterally through the foot platformbisecting a length of the foot platform.
 9. The apparatus of claim 1,wherein: the at least one user support attachment includes a pair oflooped arm straps, each looped arm strap of the pair of looped armstraps connected to and extending from a respective branch of the pairof branches, each looped arm strap having a handle surrounding a lowerportion of the looped arm strap configured to support a respective handof the user.
 10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein: each looped armstrap of the pair of looped arm straps includes an interior portioncontaining a padding material.
 11. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein:each looped arm strap of the pair of looped arm straps includes at leastone binding coupled to the respective looped arm strap and configured tocreate a first upper loop and a second lower loop.
 12. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein: the at least one user support attachment includes aseat comprising a generally rectangular material having opposite endsand a length defined between the opposite ends of the material; theopposite ends of the material are bunched together and connected to adifferent respective branch of the pair of branches; the seat includes aplurality of stuffed sections are connected to the material midwaybetween the opposite ends of the material, the plurality of stuffedsection are aligned and sequentially spaced along a width of thegenerally rectangular material and span a minority of the length of therectangular material; and the plurality of stuffed sections each containa padding material.
 13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein: the seat isconfigurable in either an expanded position or a rolled position; theseat in the expanded position is generally shaped for receiving a backor a rear end of the user; and the seat in the rolled position has theplurality of stuffed sections rolled together for supporting the back orthe rear end of the user, the plurality of stuffed sections are heldtogether in the rolled positioned using at least two bindings positionedat opposite ends of the plurality of stuffed sections.
 14. The apparatusof claim 1, wherein: the at least one user support attachment includes ashoulder harness comprising a pair of looped shoulder harness straps;each looped shoulder harness strap of the pair of looped shoulderharness straps includes at least one binding coupled to the respectivelooped shoulder harness strap and configured to create an upper shoulderharness portion and a lower shoulder harness portion; the lower shoulderharness portion of each looped shoulder harness strap of the pair oflooped shoulder harness straps is configured to receive an arm up to ashoulder of the user; and the pair of looped shoulder harness straps arecoupled together proximate to the first binding using a main binding.15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein: the lower shoulder harnessportion of each looped shoulder harness strap of the pair of loopedshoulder harness straps includes an interior portion containing apadding material.
 16. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein: the at leastone support hanger includes a pair of support hangers connected to andextending from the upper portion of the main support, each supporthanger of the pair of support hangers being configured to be connectedto the support structure at either the first location or the secondlocation.
 17. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein: the at least onesupport hanger is connected to the support structure; and the apparatusfurther comprises at least one vine suspension strap also connected tothe support structure, the at least one vine suspension strap beinglaterally offset from the at least one support hanger.
 18. An apparatusfor aerial exercise of a user while suspended from a support structure,the apparatus comprising: a main support configured to be connected tothe support structure; and at least one pair user support loops havingan interior portion at least partially filled with a padded material,the at least one pair of user support loops having an upper portion anda lower portion, the upper portion configured to connect to the mainsupport, the lower portion configured to support a respective hand,foot, or shoulder of the user.
 19. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein:each user support loop of the at least one pair of user support loopsincludes at least one binding coupled to the respective user supportloop and configured to create an upper loop and a lower loop, the upperportion being part of the upper loop and the lower portion being part ofthe lower loop.
 20. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein: each usersupport loop of the at least one pair of user support loops includes arespective foot platform having an upper surface and a passageway, thepassageway bisecting a length of the foot platform; the passageway isconfigured to receive the lower portion of a respective user supportloop of the at least one pair of user support loops; and the uppersurface of each respective foot platform is configured to support arespective foot of the user.
 21. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein:each user support loop of the at least one pair of user support loopsincludes a respective hand grip received by the lower portion of thelower loop, the respective hand grip configured to support a respectivehand of the user.
 22. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein: the lower loopof each user support loop of the at least one pair of user support loopsincludes a lower interior portion at least partially filled with thepadded material; the lower loop of each user support loop of the atleast one pair of user support loops is configured to receive arespective arm up to a respective shoulder of the user; and the lowerportion of the lower loop of each user support loop of the at least onepair of user support loops is configured to support the respectiveshoulder of the user.
 23. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein: the atleast one binding divides the interior portion into an upper interiorportion and a lower interior portion, both the upper and lower interiorportions of each user support loop of the at least one pair of usersupport loops is at least partially filled with the padded material. 24.An apparatus for aerial exercise of a user while suspended from asupport structure, the apparatus comprising: a main support configuredto be connected to the support structure; and a pair of user supportloops extending from the main support, each user support loop of thepair of user support loops having a foot platform connected to a lowerportion of the respective user support loop for supporting a respectivefoot of a user.
 25. The apparatus of claim 24, wherein: the main supportincludes a pair of branches extending from the main support, each branchof the pair of branches having a plurality of sequential connectors; andeach user support loop of the pair of user support loops having an upperportion being configured to connect to a selected connector of theplurality of sequential connectors of a respective branch of the pair ofbranches for positioning the respective foot platform a first distancefrom the main support.
 26. The apparatus of claim 24, wherein: eachrespective foot platform has a main body, an upper surface, and apassageway configured to receive the lower portion of a respective usersupport loop of the pair of user support loops.
 27. The apparatus ofclaim 26, wherein: the passageway extends laterally through the footplatform bisecting a length of the foot platform.
 28. The apparatus ofclaim 27, wherein: each respective foot platform includes a pair ofvertical channels connected to opposite sides of the respective footplatform and bisecting a length of the respective foot platform; andeach respective pair of vertical channels is configured to receive anddirect the respective user support loop of the pair of user supportloops in a direction perpendicular to the respective foot platform. 29.The apparatus of claim 27, wherein: the passageway is connected to alower surface of the respective foot platform; and the passageway spansat least a majority of a width of the respective foot platform.